The first team exceeded all expectations in their first term in the top flight of the Wiltshire League.

It all started so badly in the first game being 'mugged' by old adversary Potterne on their 'pocket-hankerchief'ground. The home team certainly knew how to use their own facilities and hit the short boundary to good effect. With 100 off the last five overs, they posted 300 and despite good batting, Biddestone couldn't match that total.

Thereafter things looked up and five consecutive wins put the firsts near the top of the league and contemplating the title. However three defeats in a row brought the side down to earth. The worst performance of the season against Burbage & Easton Royal at home was sandwiched between defeats against good opposition at Box and at home to Calne. The season could have fallen apart there, but the team showed its grit and determination by winning six on the trot to finish the season as league runners-up.

Once again the batting revolved around Dwaine Perry, but there were notable supporting performances. Jon Mason confirmed his place as a formidable and aggressive opener and Matt Lennon played some of the most attractive shots of the season. However, batting right down to 9 and 10 meant that the batting rarely failed. The same wasn't true of the bowling which needs strengthening. Alan Low bowled well before his operation and we look forward to his return next season and Mike Tasker took over from his brother to offer his dangerous late swing. However it is in the bowling that we probably need to improve if we are to seek to win the title next season.

            John Lawton 20th September 2002

2002 Roll of honour

Results

Detail and Performances